How can early childhood practitioners best respond to cultural and linguistic diversity and ensure positive interactions with all children and families? Discover the power of Skilled Dialogue, a unique, effective, and field-tested model for interactions that honor the cultural beliefs and values of everyone involved.

Going far beyond the fundamentals introduced in the first edition of this book, the fully updated second edition incorporates expanded coverage of today's most critical topics and reflects the real-world feedback of seasoned Skilled Dialogue users. With this proven model for respectful, reciprocal, and responsive communication, pre- and inservice educators and interventionists will

understand culture as a dynamic that shapes the behaviors and beliefs of all people

actively communicate respect for what others believe, think, and value

resolve issues creatively by integrating diverse perspectives from all parties

strengthen inclusive assessment and instruction

reframe differences between practitioners and families as complementary, not contradictory

leverage cultural diversity as a strength rather than a "problem" or risk factor

avoid stereotypes based on culture and ethnicity

gain critical insight into the effects of trauma and how it interacts with culture

establish collaborative relationships rather than seeking control over others

To support professionals as they put Skilled Dialogue into practice, this edition includes more explicit guidance, vivid examples, and practical photocopiable forms to aid with assessment, instruction, and organization of key family and child information.

With this comprehensive guide to a positive, highly effective model, early childhood professionals will establish skillful interactions that honor all cultures and perspectives—leading to stronger working relationships and better outcomes for whole families.

WHAT'S NEW

More on assessment and instruction

New forms that support differentiation of assessment and instruction

Recent research and changes in early childhood education

Revisions and additions that respond to user feedback

Updated and expanded chapter on cultural diversity in relation to trauma

Reviews

Review by: Rosa Milagros Santos, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

"An invaluable resource . . . bridges what we know from current research to how we can make it real in our practices. This book is a must have for early childhood professionals whose work must begin with building healthy relationships with young children and families from all different backgrounds."

About the Authors
ForewordCynthia L. Paris
Preface
Acknowledgments

Introduction: The Evolution of Skilled Dialogue 1996-2011

I. Culture and Cultural Linguistic Diversity

Culture: The Underlying Reality

Cultural Linguistic Diversity: The Challenges

Honoring Identity, Voice and Connection: The Response

II. Dialogue Across Culturally Linguistically Based Differences

Skilled Dialogue: The Framework

Anchored Understanding of Diversity/Choosing Relationship over Control: The Context, Part I

3rd Space/Setting the Stage for Miracles: The Context, Part II

Strategies Then and Now

III. Collaborative and Culturally Inclusive Assessment and Instruction of Young Children